A new investigation by Injustice Watch, a nonprofit newsroom focused on the Cook County court system, revealed that Cook County prosecutors are challenging efforts by wrongfully convicted individuals to clear their names and secure compensation.
Certificates of innocence, created by Illinois lawmakers in 2008, were designed to help exonerees access state compensation and rebuild their lives with better access to jobs and housing.
Under Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neil Burke, the office has reportedly opposed nearly four of every five requests for a certificate…